Fully Funded PhD in Urbanisation, Avian Sleep, and Bird Behaviour at Deakin University
Deakin University is advertising a
fully funded PhD opportunity
on
urbanisation, avian sleep, bird behaviour, and ecology
. The project is titled
“Where, when and how do birds sleep in the city?”
and will investigate how native Australian birds avoid, tolerate, or adapt to urban development and its effects on sleep, activity, and rest.
The PhD will be based in the
School of Life and Environmental Science
at
Deakin University
in
Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Australia
. Depending on the student’s interests and strengths, the project may include a mix of
field research
and
experimental studies
, including the use of
miniature tracking devices
to record activity and movement. Fieldwork and experimental work will be conducted primarily around Geelong, with some additional travel possible.
The opportunity is open to both
domestic Australian
and
international
applicants. The ideal candidate will have a
First-Class Honours
degree or equivalent in
Zoology
or
Ecology
, strong scientific writing and analytical skills, preferably
R
proficiency, the ability to work independently and in a team, and a
full driver’s licence
. Experience with animal handling, bird banding, and wildlife tracking is desirable but not essential.
Supervision will be led by
Dr Anne Aulsebrook
and co-supervised by
Professor Kate Buchanan
, both at
Deakin University
. The scholarship package includes an annual stipend of approximately
$37,450 tax-free
, a relocation allowance for interstate/overseas candidates, and
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
for international students for the duration of the visa.
To apply, send a
CV with 2 referees
and a
1–2 page cover letter
explaining your suitability to
[email protected]
by
31 May 2026
. Interviews will follow shortly after, and the successful candidate must be in Australia and enrolled in the graduate program at Deakin University before the end of the year.
